Jacqueline is Moisés' mother and every day she has to prepare her son's and her own peritoneal dialysis. Both are on the waiting list to receive a kidney. From Coyhaique they have traveled to Santiago due to the lack of specialists in the regions and from our shelter she has had the generosity to share her story and strength, to tell our community that it is possible and that a mother's love can achieve everything.
Jaqueline and her only son, Moises, have faced a challenging battle against chronic renal failure. They reside in the remote town of Coyhaique, where a shortage of medical specialists led them to move to Santiago in search of treatment. This mother and son share a unique and heartbreaking story of facing the reality of Moises' diagnosis: Alport Syndrome, a disease that affects vision, hearing and kidneys.
Moses, diagnosed with Alport syndrome at age 4, experienced noticeable symptoms such as proteinuria and blood in the urine. The challenge intensified when the disease progressed to severe renal failure. Jaqueline, on the other hand, also faces severe chronic kidney disease, with a diagnosis of stage 4 chronic renal failure.
The lack of specialists in Coyhaique led Jaqueline and Moises to receive treatment at the San Borja Hospital in Santiago. Initially, visits were every 3 months, but as the disease progressed, the frequency decreased to once every 6 months. Moises began peritoneal dialysis treatment in December 2023, his only alternative to keep his kidney functioning while waiting for a transplant.
The mother, Jaqueline, also undergoes peritoneal dialysis and faces her own battle with chronic renal failure. Jaqueline's disease manifested itself during the pandemic, making necessary medical check-ups difficult. Her diagnosis came when she was already in stage 4.
The news of the transplant is a light of hope for Moises and Jaqueline. Moises, being a priority on the waiting list due to his condition as a child, undergoes a series of tests to prepare for the procedure. The Casa de Acogida has been a crucial refuge for them, providing support and comfort during their stay in Santiago.
Jaqueline, who works as a cashier in a coffee shop, faces additional challenges being a mother of a child in treatment. The Foster Home has been a blessing, providing them with a safe and comfortable place, as well as facilitating Moses' treatment in the same room.
The family faces additional fears, such as the loss of Jaqueline's job, who has experienced difficulties due to Moises' stay in a children's hospital. Despite the challenges, Jaqueline and Moses remain strong and optimistic, focusing on treatment and the possibility of a transplant.
Jaqueline and Moises' story is a wake-up call about the importance of prevention and access to specialized medical care in remote regions. Their determination, supported by Casa de Acogida, illustrates how love and support can make a significant difference in the fight against chronic renal failure.
